Both Woodmex and ASFI visitor levels held up well, despite what exhibitors and organisers described as tough market conditions for both the wood machine sector and furniture component and accessory suppliers.
Preliminary reports put visitor numbers at Woodmex at 14,939, just 20 fewer than the figure for 2000. “In addition, nearly 700 visitors returned to the exhibition for a second day making actual attendance up on last time,” said organiser Centrex. It attributed the attendance numbers to the level of new technology on show and a major marketing campaign.
Following the level of activity at this year’s show, Andy Gibb, divisional director at Centrex, said plans were being drawn up to expand Woodmex.
“This year’s exhibition was a sell-out and there’s no room to grow in the traditional venue, NEC Hall 5. So in 2004 we’re moving to the new NEC halls and we’ll be announcing more details soon.”
ASFI, held in the hall alongside Woodmex, estimates its attendance at 15,000. Organiser Cheryl Lewis similarly attributed the figures to the level of new launches and “market entrants” at the event. “This attracted serious buyers and resulted in a successful show for everyone.”
The ASFI 2002 furniture design competition, judged by designers Jeff Banks, Floris van den Broecke and Roger Webb, was won by Bucks College student Wayne Pottinger for his “Off the Rail Stool”.
